While millions know him as the beloved Steve Harrington from Netflix's global phenomenon Stranger Things, Joe Keery has been quietly orchestrating a musical revolution under his psychedelic alter ego Djo. In an exclusive revelation, the actor-turned-musician opens up about his deliberate departure from mainstream expectations and his journey toward authentic artistic expression.
From Hawkins to Harmonic Evolution
Keery's musical transformation isn't a sudden Hollywood whim. Before battling Demogorgons in Hawkins, he honed his craft as the guitarist for Chicago's psychedelic rock outfit Post Animal. "The goal was always to make music," Keery confesses, reflecting on his pre-fame aspirations that never included acting.
His latest album Decide represents a quantum leap from his earlier work, showcasing a more sophisticated, synth-heavy sound that demonstrates his growth as both a musician and producer. "I wanted to create something that felt genuinely me," he explains, emphasizing his commitment to artistic authenticity over commercial appeal.
The Deliberate Distance: Why Djo?
The creation of his stage name Djo (pronounced "Joe") was a strategic move to separate his musical identity from his acting fame. "It's about letting the music speak for itself," Keery notes. This conscious uncoupling allows audiences to experience his art without the shadow of Steve Harrington looming over every note.
His approach to promotion is equally intentional. Rather than leveraging his celebrity status, Keery prefers letting the music find its audience organically. "There's something beautiful about discovery," he muses, acknowledging the slower but more meaningful growth of his musical career.
Navigating the Crossroads of Fame and Artistry
As Stranger Things approaches its final season, Keery stands at a professional crossroads many actors would envy. Yet his focus remains firmly on musical evolution. "The plan is to continue making music that challenges me," he states, revealing upcoming tours and new material already in development.
What makes Keery's journey remarkable isn't just his talent in both fields, but his refusal to take the easy path. In an industry where many actors dabble in music as a side project, Keery approaches Djo with the seriousness of a career artist. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that sometimes the most rewarding paths are those we build ourselves, far from the spotlight's expected glare.
